Certification
Official
Recognition of foreign professional qualifications
Recognition of foreign professional qualifications: Your key to the German job market!
Do you want to have your professional qualifications acquired abroad recognised in Germany? The path to the German labour market can seem complex, but with the right preparation and information, it is achievable. In this article, learn all the essential details about the recognition process, the responsible authorities, and the available financial support options. Need individual advice? Get in touch with us here.
The topic briefly and concisely
The recognition of foreign professional qualifications is a crucial step for successfully entering the German job market. It allows you to make optimal use of the skills and knowledge you have acquired abroad.
The recognition process involves several steps, from the identification of the reference occupation to the submission of the application to the competent authority. Careful preparation and support from advisory services are crucial for success. Recognition can lead to an increase in annual gross income of up to €15,000.
There are various funding options available to reduce the costs of the recognition process. Take advantage of these offers and let us assist you with the creation of the required certified translations to speed up the process and ensure that all documents meet the requirements.
Have you completed education or a degree abroad and want to work in Germany? This article explains how to apply for recognition of your qualifications and the benefits it brings. Find out more now!
Have you completed education or training abroad and want to kickstart your career in Germany? The recognition of foreign professional qualifications is a crucial step in this process. It enables you to apply your skills and expertise acquired abroad to the German job market. At Mentoc, we support you in making this process as smooth as possible. Our translation services and expertise in official certification will help you submit all necessary documents accurately and on time.
The recognition of foreign professional qualifications isn't only essential for your professional integration but also makes a significant contribution to meeting Germany's skilled labour demands. By having your qualifications recognised, you can enhance your career prospects and simultaneously strengthen the German economy. Find out now about the opportunities and begin your professional life in Germany successfully. Use our expertise to make the recognition process efficient and successful. The recognition of foreign professional qualifications is a vital component for your professional future in Germany.
The legal foundations for recognition are outlined in the Federal Recognition Act (BQFG) and corresponding state laws. These laws govern the procedure and requirements for recognising your qualifications. It is important to familiarise yourself with these foundations to successfully navigate the process. We support you in understanding the relevant laws and regulations and in taking the necessary steps. The recognition laws are the basis for integrating skilled workers into the German job market.
Achieve full recognition in 3-4 months: How the process works
The recognition process comprises several steps that must be carefully followed. First, it is important to identify the reference occupation, which is the German professional qualification most similar to your foreign qualification. Subsequently, you should seek information and advice from a counselling centre, such as BAMF or the Jobcentre. There, you will receive information about the necessary documents and the procedure.
After receiving advice, you submit the application to the relevant authority. They will review your documents and compare your foreign qualification with the German standard. Ideally, you will receive full recognition if your qualification is equivalent. However, you might only receive partial recognition if significant differences are identified. In this case, you have the opportunity to bridge these differences through adaptation training. Recognition in Germany is a crucial step towards integrating into the job market.
The duration of the procedure is generally 3-4 months once all necessary documents have been submitted in full. Therefore, it is advisable to start the recognition process early to avoid unnecessary delays. The necessary documents typically include proof of foreign qualification, certified translations, a CV, and, where applicable, proof of work experience. At Mentoc, we are happy to assist you in producing the required certified translations to expedite the process and ensure all documents meet the requirements. Recognition of professional qualifications in Germany is a complex process that we simplify for you.
ZAB, IQ Netzwerk & Co.: Find the right point of contact for your recognition
The responsibility for the recognition of foreign professional qualifications in Germany is distributed across various authorities. The Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB) is the primary point of contact for the evaluation of international qualifications, particularly university degrees. The ZAB issues certificates of comparability that help employers better assess your qualifications. However, for certain professional groups and federal states, other authorities are responsible. Therefore, it is important to find the correct point of contact for your profession.
The portal "Recognition in Germany" offers a central access point to information and the Recognition Finder, which helps you determine the responsible authority. Additionally, there are numerous advisory services, such as the IQ Network, the Employment Agency/Job Centre, and the BAMF, which support you in the recognition process. These institutions provide you with individual advice and assist you with the application process. The ZAB is an important institution for the recognition of foreign degrees.
We at Mentoc work closely with various recognition authorities and advisory services to offer you the best possible service. We are familiar with the requirements of the different authorities and can help you submit all necessary documents correctly and completely. Our expertise in certified translations ensures that your documents are recognised by all authorities. The recognition of foreign professional qualifications in Germany is an important step for your career.
Full Recognition or Adaptation Qualification: How to Bridge the Differences
The outcome of the recognition process can vary. Ideally, you will receive full recognition if your foreign qualification is equivalent to the German qualification. This means you can practice the same profession in Germany as with the German degree. However, there might also be a case of partial recognition if significant differences are identified between your qualification and German standards.
In this case, you have the option to compensate for the differences with an adaptation qualification. This can be in the form of an adaptation course, a suitability test, or a knowledge test. After successfully completing the adaptation qualification, you will receive full recognition. It may also occur that your qualification is not recognised if the differences are too great and cannot be compensated through adaptation measures. Professional recognition with conditions is a common outcome of the process.
We at Mentoc are happy to advise you on the different adaptation qualifications and support you in selecting the appropriate measure. Our translation services also help you prepare for the exams by providing you with specialised translations and learning materials. The recognition of professional qualifications in Bavaria follows similar principles as in other federal states.
€200 to €600: How to Fund Your Recognition
The recognition process is typically associated with costs. These usually range between 200 and 600 EUR. The exact costs depend on the type of qualification and the responsible authority. However, there are various funding opportunities that can help you reduce the costs. The Employment Agency/Job Centre offers financial support for recognition, especially if you are unemployed or seeking work. There are also government funding programmes you can take advantage of.
It is important to inform yourself in advance about the different funding opportunities, as a retroactive cost reimbursement is generally not possible. We at Mentoc are happy to advise you on the various funding opportunities and assist you with the application process. Our expertise in certified translations ensures that your documents are recognised by all authorities and that you receive the funding. The Employment Agency provides support for financing the recognition.
Take the opportunity to have your foreign professional qualifications recognised in Germany and improve your career prospects. With our support, the process will be as simple and efficient as possible. The costs for the recognition process can be reduced through various funding programmes.
Reach your goal faster: Accelerated procedures for EU citizens and professionals
For certain groups of people, there are special cases and accelerated procedures that can shorten the recognition process. Simplified rules apply to EU/EEA/Switzerland citizens, especially for certain professions where automatic recognition is possible. The Skilled Immigration Act offers an accelerated procedure for skilled workers from third countries. This procedure allows for faster recognition and thus quicker entry into the German job market.
Another option is the recognition partnership, which makes it possible to obtain recognition after entry under certain conditions. This is particularly interesting for skilled workers who have already found a job in Germany. At Mentoc, we are happy to assist you in selecting the appropriate procedure and helping you with the application. Our expertise in certified translations ensures that your documents are accepted by all agencies. The BMBF coordinates the recognition processes and promotes digitization.
Take advantage of the accelerated procedures and start your professional life in Germany quickly and successfully. With our support, the process will be as simple and efficient as possible. The European Professional Card (EPC) simplifies recognition within the EU/EEA for certain professions.
Tackling the Skilled Labour Shortage: Recognition Strengthens the German Job Market
The recognition of foreign professional qualifications is of great importance for the German labour market and society. It helps to combat the skills shortage by enabling qualified professionals from abroad to work in Germany. This strengthens the German economy and secures Germany's competitiveness. Recognition also promotes the integration of migrants into the labour market and society.
By having their qualifications recognised, migrants can utilise their professional skills and earn their livelihood independently. This contributes to social integration and strengthens social cohesion. At Mentoc, we see it as our mission to support this process and contribute to the integration of skilled workers from abroad. The recognition of professional qualifications is a key instrument in meeting the demand for skilled workers.
Take the opportunity to have your foreign professional qualifications recognised in Germany and make a valuable contribution to the German economy and society. With our support, the process will be as simple and efficient as possible. The recognition of foreign degrees is an important step towards integration into the German labour market.
Certified translations: Your key to successful recognition
An essential part of the recognition process is the submission of certified translations of your foreign documents. These translations must be performed by a sworn translator to be recognised by the relevant authorities. At Mentoc, we offer you professional certified translations in all languages. Our translators are experienced in the field of recognition of foreign professional qualifications and understand the requirements of various authorities.
We ensure that your translations are done accurately, completely, and within the deadline. Our services include the translation of certificates, documents, diplomas, and other relevant papers. We work closely with you to make sure all your needs are met. Translation is an important step in the recognition process.
Take advantage of our expertise and have your documents certified by us. With our support, the recognition process will be as simple and efficient as possible. Official certification is a crucial component of the recognition process.
Recognition Checklist: How to Keep Track
More useful links
The Ministry of Labour, Health and Social Affairs of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia provides information about the recognition of foreign professional qualifications in NRW.
The Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) offers information and resources on the recognition of foreign professional qualifications in Germany.
The Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) provides advice and support for immigrants during the recognition process.
The Federal Employment Agency provides information on the recognition of foreign degrees and offers financial support.
Recognition in Germany is the official portal of the Federal Government for the recognition of foreign professional qualifications.
The Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs (KMK) provides information about the responsibility of the ZAB in the recognition of foreign degrees.
The Ministry of Social Affairs, Health and Integration Baden-Württemberg provides information on the recognition of foreign degrees and qualifications in Baden-Württemberg.
FAQ
How long does the recognition process usually take?
The recognition process usually takes 3-4 months after all the required documents have been fully submitted. It is advisable to start the process early.
What documents do I need for recognition?
You usually need proof of your foreign qualification, certified translations, a CV, and, if applicable, proof of professional experience.
What is a reference profession and why is it important?
The reference profession is the German qualification that is most similar to your foreign qualification. Identifying the reference profession is the first step in the recognition process.
What happens if my qualification is not fully recognized?
If significant differences are identified between your qualification and the German standard, a partial recognition may occur. In this case, you have the option to bridge these differences with an adaptation qualification.
Where can I find the responsible authority for my profession?
The "Recognition in Germany" portal offers a Recognition Finder that helps you identify the competent authority. You can also contact advisory centers like the IQ Network, the Employment Agency/Job Center, or the BAMF.
What costs are associated with the recognition procedure and are there funding options?
The costs usually range between 200 and 600 EUR. The Employment Agency/Job Center offers financial support, particularly if you are unemployed or looking for work. Find out in advance about the different funding options.
Are there expedited procedures for certain groups of people?
For EU/EWR/Switzerland citizens, simplified rules apply, particularly for certain professions where automatic recognition is possible. The Skilled Immigration Act offers an accelerated procedure for skilled workers from third countries.
What is the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB)?
The ZAB is the central contact point for the evaluation of international qualifications, particularly university degrees. It issues comparability certificates that help employers better assess your qualifications.
